What is CNC Machining – The Ultimate Guide

CNC machining is a process that involves the use of computers to control machine tools. This process can be used to create parts and products with a high degree of accuracy. CNC machining is an essential part of the manufacturing process for many industries, including the aerospace, automotive, and medical sectors. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about CNC machining, from the history of the process to the benefits it offers businesses today.

The History of CNC Machining

CNC machining has its roots in the 19th century, when Elias Howe invented the sewing machine. Howe’s machine utilized a punch card system to control its stitch patterns. In 1881, John T. Kemper patented a machine that could cut metal using a rotating cutting tool. This was the first time that a machine had been used to control the cutting of metal.

In 1937, John Parsons began developing his own metal-cutting machine. Parsons’ machine was based on Kemper’s design, but it utilized electricity instead of steam power. Parsons’ machine was also able to create more complex shapes than previous machines. In 1941, Parsons formed his own company, General Numerical Control (GNC), to commercialize his invention.

During World War II, GNC’s machines were used by the United States military to produce parts for airplanes and other equipment. After the war, GNC continued to develop its machines and sold them to various manufacturers. In 1952, G NC produced the world’s first numerically controlled (NC) milling machine. NC milling machines are able to create very precise parts and products.

In 1957, FORTRAN (Formula Translation), one of the first high-level programming languages, was invented. This language made it possible to program NC milling machines using numerical codes instead of punch cards. In 1959, MIT professor Harold Sackman developed DYNAMO (Dynamic Motion), one of the first software programs designed specifically for controlling NC milling machines.

By 1963, NC milling machines were widely available and being used by manufacturers around the world. In 1974, Stanford University professor James Morris developed CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), which revolutionized the manufacturing industry by allowing engineers to design products using computer software instead of pen and paper.

In 1981, Seiki Kogyo Co., Ltd., now known as Fanuc Corporation, introduced the world’s first CNC lathe. A CNC lathe is a type of machine that can create complex three-dimensional shapes using a rotating cutting tool. In 1984, Mori Seiki Co., Ltd., now known as DMG Mori Seiki Corporation, introduced the world’s first CNC vertical machining center (VMC). A VMC is a type of machine that can perform multiple machining operations on a workpiece in a single setup—this isknown as “single-setup processing.”

CNC technology has continued to evolve since then, and new types of CNC machines are being developed all the time. Today, CNC machining is an essential part of manufacturing for many different industries, including aerospace , automotive , medical , and others . The benefits of CNC machining are numerous , including increased accuracy , productivity , and flexibility.

Conclusion

CNC machining is a process that involves the use of computers to control machine tools . This process can be used to create parts and products with a high degree of accuracy . CNC machining is an essential part of the manufacturing process for many industries , including aerospace , automotive , and medical . In this guide , we have explored everything you need to know about CNC machining , from its history to its many benefits . If you are in need of precision parts or products , c ontact a local cnc manufacturer today .